- Philadelphia is the first major U.S. city to introduce a tax on sweetened beverages.
- The soda lobby failed to influence voters, despite spending millions on an anti-tax campaign.
- This news comes just months after the UK and South Africa announced sugary drinks levies.
In a landmark moment – and a significant blow to Big Soda – Philadelphia City Council has voted 13 to 4 in favour of a sweetened beverages tax.
The tax will be levied at 1.5 cents per ounce on all sweetened drinks, including artificially sweetened versions – go Philly!
Supporters estimate that the tax will raise US$91 million ($123 million AUD) revenue per year, which the Council will spend on education and public spaces.
And with more than 68 per cent of adults and 41 per cent of children overweight or obese across the state, the Council hopes it will also help residents make healthier choices. Which, after all, is the point of the whole soft drink tax conversation in the first place!
Of course, the tax signifies a major loss for Big Soda. With Philly fifth largest city in the U.S., the American Beverage Association has been campaigning hard against the tax – spending $4.9 million ($6.6 million AUD) since March.
Could Big Soda be finally losing its grip on governments? We hope so! Which city – or country – will be next to take up the fight?
Would you support a soda tax in your city?
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